Operation Gothic Serpent in Mogadishu
Running head: History Essay
UNCLASSIFIED
History Essay on Operation Gothic Serpent
Abstract
Operation Gothic Serpent in Oct 1993 in Mogadishu, Somalia has been labeled one of the bloodiest firefights for United States troops. It has also arguably been remembered as one of the U.S. military’s blunders. Although the majority of Americans were disgusted and outraged by the failed operation, it can be used as a tool to study the vital role of NCOs and force readiness.
History Essay on Operation Gothic Serpent
One of the most widely debated issues in American politics is what specific role the United States should take in world crises. Some would argue that it is the US’s responsibility to promote and defend freedom, human rights, and democracy. Others disagree and take the opinion that the US should not impose its values on other nations or get involved in civil wars or other disputes. Despite one’s political opinion, it is necessary for the military to be adequately prepared to engage in combat. Readiness for any mission should include timely and accurate intelligence reports, well-trained and well-armed troops, and competent leadership. Examining Operation Gothic Serpent, it becomes evident that several of these prerequisites were lacking and contributed to the operation’s bloody outcome.
In 1992, President Bush authorized US troops to deploy to Somalia to assist in Operation Restore Hope. Operation Restore Hope was a United Nations operation designed to restore order in a nation that had been torn by civil war and brutal warlords. An already explosive environment turned from bad to worse when 24 Pakistani UN troops were killed in mid-1993. Bill Clinton had recently taken office and in response to a UN resolution he deployed a special task force to Somalia. Under supervision of the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC), Operation Gothic Serpent was launched headed up by Maj. General William F. Garrison. Task
UNCLASSIFIED
History Essay on Operation Gothic Serpent
Abstract
Operation Gothic Serpent in Oct 1993 in Mogadishu, Somalia has been labeled one of the bloodiest firefights for United States troops. It has also arguably been remembered as one of the U.S. military’s blunders. Although the majority of Americans were disgusted and outraged by the failed operation, it can be used as a tool to study the vital role of NCOs and force readiness.
History Essay on Operation Gothic Serpent
One of the most widely debated issues in American politics is what specific role the United States should take in world crises. Some would argue that it is the US’s responsibility to promote and defend freedom, human rights, and democracy. Others disagree and take the opinion that the US should not impose its values on other nations or get involved in civil wars or other disputes. Despite one’s political opinion, it is necessary for the military to be adequately prepared to engage in combat. Readiness for any mission should include timely and accurate intelligence reports, well-trained and well-armed troops, and competent leadership. Examining Operation Gothic Serpent, it becomes evident that several of these prerequisites were lacking and contributed to the operation’s bloody outcome.
In 1992, President Bush authorized US troops to deploy to Somalia to assist in Operation Restore Hope. Operation Restore Hope was a United Nations operation designed to restore order in a nation that had been torn by civil war and brutal warlords. An already explosive environment turned from bad to worse when 24 Pakistani UN troops were killed in mid-1993. Bill Clinton had recently taken office and in response to a UN resolution he deployed a special task force to Somalia. Under supervision of the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC), Operation Gothic Serpent was launched headed up by Maj. General William F. Garrison. Task
References: Black Hawk Down. 1997. Philly.com. Retrieved 2 February 2009. . Bowden, M. Black Hawk Down. New York: Atlantic Monthly Press, 1999. Newsday. 5 December 1993. NomadNet. Retrieved 2 February 2009. .